The Cleveland Browns were looking for a situational pass rusher even before starting defensive end Alex Wright was lost for the season. They signed Derek Barnett in the aftermath of Wright’s Achilles injury, but they were still seeking depth at the position.
Now, in the aftermath of the NFL roster deadline, more players have become available. The Browns have taken advantage of the market at other positions, but they have finally gotten around to addressing their defensive line.
According to ESPN insider Jeremy Fowler, the Browns plan to sign former Dallas Cowboys defender Sam Williams and place him on the 53-man roster.
“The Browns plan to sign free agent pass rusher Sam Williams to the active roster, per sources,” Fowler posted.
The Browns plan to sign free agent pass rusher Sam Williams to the active roster, per sources. pic.twitter.com/ec5Csugj9S
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) September 1, 2026
A second-round pick by the Cowboys in the 2022 NFL Draft, Williams was productive in a reserve role. He did not start a game in his first two seasons but managed to post 8.5 sacks in 32 games, and he finished fifth in the voting for Defensive Rookie of the Year.
Williams missed the entire 2024 season after tearing his ACL and MCL during a training camp practice. He rebounded to play all 17 games last season, and though he managed just one sack, he did post a career-high 37 combined tackles.
That lack of pass-rush production, plus a tendency to commit foolish plays and costly penalties, diminished his status with the Cowboys. Now, he will look for a fresh start with the Browns, who are seeking depth behind defensive ends Jared Verse, Isaiah McGuire and potentially Mike Hall Jr.
If the Browns do intend to put Williams directly onto the active roster, that could explain why they are reportedly putting cornerback Michael Coats Jr. on waivers. An undrafted training camp standout, Coats was expected to provide depth to a very thin position.
But the Browns also claimed cornerback Toriano Pride Jr. off waivers from the Buffalo Bills on Monday, and they waived defensive end Julian Okwara to make room for him. The possible swap of Coats for Williams may be the latest related move as the Browns look to address their defensive positions of need.
A player usually regains his form in his second season after an ACL injury, and the Browns will be hoping that Williams is able to follow that trend and help their defense this year.
NEXT: Browns Make A Surprising Roster Move On Tuesday
